Best Nikon 70-200mm Lenses [2024 Review]

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There are a wide number of factors that make someone a good photographer, apart from his or her remarkable photography skills.

A good camera and an extraordinary lens is a plus! If you already have a decent camera, then pay attention as we are enlisting stellar lenses you may want to own.

So, read through this buyer’s guide, and you might find one you want to purchase.

Review of the Best 70-200mm Lenses For Nikon

We have picked the top 70-200mm lenses that Nikon has put out on the market. Go through their main features, pros, and cons, and we are certain you would find the one to satisfy your needs.

Brand
Sony FE
Tamron SP
Canon EF
Product
Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS Lens
Tamron SP 70-200mm F/2.8 Di VC G2 for Canon EF...
Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L USM Telephoto Zoom Lens for...
Aperture
70-200mm
70-200mm
70-200mm
Focal Length
f/2.8
f/2.8
f/4L
Brand
Sony FE
Product
Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS Lens
Aperture
70-200mm
Focal Length
f/2.8
Brand
Tamron SP
Product
Tamron SP 70-200mm F/2.8 Di VC G2 for Canon EF...
Aperture
70-200mm
Focal Length
f/2.8
Brand
Canon EF
Product
Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L USM Telephoto Zoom Lens for...
Aperture
70-200mm
Focal Length
f/4L

Best Overall: Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 APO

Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 APO EX DG HSM OS FLD Large...

PROS

  • High resolution gives clarity
  • Extremely low distortion in images
  • Lightweight, making it easy to carry
  • Perfect for extreme weather conditions
  • Taken images have slight vignette around corners

CONS

  • Lack of real-time auto focus
  • Light sensitivity distorts the image
  • Water-resistant, but not waterproof

What Recent Buyers Report

Almost every recent buyer appreciates the feel of Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 APO lens in their hands; they applaud it for its high-quality design and compact build. Other than its design, they complement its picture quality as well. Some even say that its zoom-in and zoom-out ring feels smooth, giving a nice feel to the lens. Overall, they are happy and satisfied with their purchase.

Why it Stands Out to Us

Remember how we said that durability is one of the key features that you must consider when you are looking for a lens? Well, this is the most durable one on our list. If you have to cover a lot of shoots, then this will keep your business going.

Who Will Use This Most

Sigma 70-200mm is best for action sports, wildlife, wedding, landscapes, and night photography. So, if you find yourself in the above categories, then you will find a friend in this lens. Take good care of it, and it will be by your side for a very long time.

Bottom Line

Overall, this lens has a set of outstanding features. Use it for taking portraits, wedding photography, or capturing live action in the wildlife; it is made to work perfectly in all scenarios. So, just invest in and enhance the quality of your work.

Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 APO EX DG HSM OS FLD Large...
  • 70-200mm focal length, Minimum Focusing Distance :140cm / 55.1inch, Maximum Magnification -1:8.FOCAL...
  • 105-300mm equivalent focal length on APS-C cameras, 112-320mm equivalent focal length on Canon APS-C...
  • F2.8 constant maximum aperture; F22 minimum, Ring-type ultrasonic-type AF motor with full-time...

Runner-up: Tokina ATXAF720FXN 70-200mm f/4 Pro FX VCM-S

Tokina ATXAF720FXN 70-200mm f/4 Pro FX VCM-S Lens...

PROS

  • Solid-build and compact design
  • Effective ability to focus manually
  • Not too expensive, easily affordable
  • Consistent high-quality of all the taken images
  • Overall, effective and consistent image stabilization

CONS

  • A bit heavy to carry
  • Does not perform well with back lighting
  • Sharpness appears at the corner of images

What Recent Buyers Report

It’s shocking to see how many users are extremely satisfied with this Tokina ATXAF720FXN 70-200mm f/4 lens. One buyer said that he had never worked with any lens like this one. Meanwhile, others admired the fact that it was made up of metal and not plastic. Another buyer said that VCM was a bit noisy, but with this price, it is a fair deal.

Why it Stands Out to Us

It stands out to us because of two features; focus mechanism and image stabilization. When you are covering a wedding or capturing wild animals or birds, the image stabilization feature is of great value. Due to such features, this is one of our favorite lenses.

Who Will Use This Most

Amateur photographers who are looking to invest in some decent lens to take their craft to professionalism would greatly benefit from this. Apart from that, this is a perfect pick for anyone who needs to add more depth to their work and add a little more quality to their photographs.

Bottom Line

This lens offers plenty of enhanced and quality features to its users. It promises amazing image stabilization, even without a gimbal. So, you can use this lens for video shooting, and you will not complain about image distortion at all. All in all, investing in this won’t be an issue at all.

Tokina ATXAF720FXN 70-200mm f/4 Pro FX VCM-S Lens...
  • Nikon F-Mount. Aperture Range: f/4 to f/22
  • For FX or DX DSLR Cameras. 105-300mm (35mm Equivalent on DX Format)
  • Three Super-Low Dispersion Elements. Multi-Layer Coated Optics

Best for the Money: Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 EX DG APO HSM

Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 APO EX DG HSM OS FLD Large...

PROS

  • Excellent optics and sharp contrast
  • Sharp wide-open and extremely silent
  • Real-time, accurate, and smooth focusing
  • Easily affordable as its price tag is not that high
  • Compact build, sturdy design, and easy to handle

CONS

  • Focus distance is a bit shorter
  • Zoom ring is reversed compared to others
  • Tripod stand is not synced well with the zoom ring

What Recent Buyers Report

Most of the recent buyers are over the moon with their purchase. One of them stated that this Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 APO EX DG HSM lens is great as it is not as pricey as a Canon or Nikon lens. In addition to this, another recent buyer complimented it because of its smooth and real-time focus.

Why it Stands Out to Us

One of the many reasons that it stands out to us is its low price, and despite that, it performs as if it’s some really high-end lens. Its compact design, sturdy build, and ultrasonic-type AF motor make it one of the most efficient and best lenses out there on the market.

Who Will Use This Most

Photographers who are looking to try on different lenses merely for either experimentation or professional use would find it quite appealing. In addition to this, if you are a photographer and you do not wish to spend a few thousand dollars on a lens, then this one is your lifesaver.

Bottom Line

Real-time auto focus, compact design, smooth focus, excellent optics, and dozens of other features, this Sigma lens has it all! After looking at its price, you would be convinced that this is the best deal. So, for sure, this is one of the top picks to go for.

Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 APO EX DG HSM OS FLD Large...
  • 70-200mm focal length, Minimum focus Distance - 1.40m/55.1 inch
  • 105-300mm equivalent focal length on APS-C cameras, 112-320mm equivalent focal length on Canon APS-C...
  • F2.8 constant maximum aperture; F22 minimum, Ring-type ultrasonic-type AF motor with full-time...

Best 70-200mm Lens for Nikon D750: Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8G ED VR II AF-S

Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8G ED VR II AF-S Nikkor Zoom...

PROS

  • Low vibration while operating
  • Comes with a focus limiter switch
  • Sharp and consistent zoom range
  • Comes with an additional tripod collar
  • Does not extend forward while zooming

CONS

  • Causes pincushion distortion
  • Close focus is only limited to 4.6 feet

What Recent Buyers Report

Most of the recent buyers are saying that this is one of the best lenses they have come across for the D750. One buyer complimented its sharpness and said that it is even sharper than his previous Nikon lens. Another buyer said that its background blur is a bit dreamy. Overall, they say that this does a really good job and a worthy investment.

Why it Stands Out to Us

The fact that Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8G ED VR II AF-S lens has a nanocrystal coat makes it stand out to us; its coat reduces ghosting and flare and offers greater and enhanced image clarity. This coating also enhances light transmission and offers superior color consistency. In addition to this, it can switch between manual and auto focus operations. With all these stellar features, this is necessary to have!

Who Will Use This Most

If you want to use this lens for sports photography, then this one will not disappoint you! It is capable of taking great pictures of driven players both at day and night time. Those who have used this lens for sports photography appreciate its zoom range and focal length. Therefore, if you are passionate about sports photography, then you must try this out.

Bottom Line

Nanocrystal integrated coat, silent wave motor, rounded 9-blade diaphragm, internal focus, and other than these features, this lens has a long list of captivating features. For all the sports photographers out there, this Nikon 750 lens would take your photography to another level as far as sharpness and contrast are concerned.

Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8G ED VR II AF-S Nikkor Zoom...
  • Type of lens: G-type AF-S Zoom-NIKKOR lens with built-in CPU and Nikon bayonet mount
  • Focal Length Range : 70 -200 mm, Minimum Focus Distance- 4.6 ft.(1.4 m)
  • Dimensions: Approx. 87 mm dia. x 205.5 mm extension from the camera’s lens-mount flange

Editor’s Pick: Tamron SP 70-200mm F/2.8 Di VC G2

Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8G ED VR II AF-S Nikkor Zoom...

PROS

  • Provides excellent optics
  • Has weather-sealed construction
  • Offers effective image stabilization
  • Durably built and extremely user-friendly
  • Comes with optical design features such as XL and LD

CONS

What Recent Buyers Report

On average, all of the recent buyers appreciate the feel and result of the Tamron SP 70-200mm F/2.8 Di VC G2 lens. One of the buyers even gave this one higher point than his previous Nikon lenses in the zoom department. Other buyers complimented the fact that it seems to be very stable, and it is very easy to put back. Most of the buyers call this a special experience.

Why it Stands Out to Us

It stands out to us because of multiple extraordinary features such as its high resolution, contrast, and sharpness. With its high resolution, you can get a high-quality and enhanced bokeh throughout. Its zoom rings are remarkable, particularly because they offer a high-quality grip. Plus, it is also compatible with a wide range of other cameras as well.

Who Will Use This Most

This lens is one of its kind; its amazing zoom range and the focal length allows you to take beautiful photographs at night. For all-night photographers, this could be the game-changer. With a very moderate price, people who are looking for a decent lens should consider this as their option.

Bottom Line

This Tamron’s lens is a work of art! It promises high resolution along with beautiful bokeh. It comes with three different VC modes, two exclusive teleconverters, and its creators have added the human touch to this design. All these features make this lens perfect for excellent photography, especially night photography.

Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8G ED VR II AF-S Nikkor Zoom...
  • Type of lens: G-type AF-S Zoom-NIKKOR lens with built-in CPU and Nikon bayonet mount
  • Focal Length Range : 70 -200 mm, Minimum Focus Distance- 4.6 ft.(1.4 m)
  • Dimensions: Approx. 87 mm dia. x 205.5 mm extension from the camera’s lens-mount flange

Comparison Chart of the Best Nikon 70-200mm Lenses

What Does 70-200mm Lens Mean?

When it comes to photography, some pointers are beneficial to everyone. Most photography experts suggest that every photographer should use a 70-200mm lens once in their career. But the real question is, what does it mean by a 70-200mm lens?

Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 APO

If you are using a zoom lens, then you must have a zoom ring. It is used to zoom in and zoom out so that you can focus perfectly. When you have 70-200mm printed on your lens, it means you can adjust the zoom ring between 70mm and 200mm. You can control the focal length depending on your needs.

What is a 70-200mm Lens Used for?

If there is one word that we can use to describe the 70-200mm lens, it would be “versatile.” This lens is perfect for shooting everything; if you need a lens to cover a sports event, this one will perfectly capture passionate sportsmen.

If you need a lens to capture the intimate moments at a wedding, then this will not disappoint you. In addition to this, if you love watching the night skies and want to capture its beauty, a 70-200mm lens would be an ideal pick. As you can see, you can use it in many ways; the choice is yours!

Are All 70-200mm Lenses the Same?

The main highlighting features of all 70-200mm lenses are the same, so you must choose based on the company of your camera and your professional and personal needs. In addition to this, besides the major main features,

you might come across some minor differences, such as in the printing of the focal length label or the design of a zoom or aperture ring. If possible, the test runs all of your possible options before finalizing it.

What to Look for When Buying a 70-200mm Lens

You can’t just show up at a lens shop and choose the first one that comes in front of you. There are some factors you must consider, which include:

Compatibility

One of the many important factors is compatibility. Opting for a lens that is not compatible with your camera will not be beneficial for you. Of course, now you can use most of the lenses with different cameras with the help of a mount or an adapter. However, it’s essential to consider all of these metrics before picking the final lens.

black camera in a falls

Source

Durability

It goes without saying, but the lens has a heavy price on it – it is a one-time investment. Make sure the one you have your eyes on is made up of durable material. Its design must be compact, and it must be solid enough to survive harsh conditions, such as rain, heat, and dust. 

Price

Lastly, manufacturers create a wide range of lenses of various price ranges. If you don’t have a ten thousand dollar budget, then there is no shame in purchasing a lens that is available for a comparatively less amount.  

What Do I Need to Know Before Buying a 70-200mm Lens?

Now that some of the top lenses are in front of you, it will be a bit easier for you to make a final pick. A lot of serious consideration goes into picking up the perfect lens for your camera. To empty your plate a bit, we have enlisted some of the key factors to consider when shopping for a lens.

Need

Are you a night photographer? Do you cover weddings? Do you call yourself a sports photographer? Are you interested in capturing landscapes? Do you need a lens to cover day shoots? Always address lenses that compliment your needs. Do not invest in a lens that is perfect for night photography when you clearly need a lens for daytime photoshoots.

Versatility

If you’re a professional photographer, then you must have a couple of cameras on your shelf. It is better to invest in a lens that is compatible with more than one camera. As a result, you will have multiple choices. The more, the merrier, right?

Price

At the end of the day, it all comes to the budget. Make a list of the lenses that come under your budget and then narrow that list to the lenses that are compatible with your camera and fulfill your needs.

Conclusion

Now, we have mentioned the very best 70-200mm lenses that are available on the market. So, go through the main features, pros, and cons of each lens one by one and choose the one that has the focal length, contrast, sharpness, and details that suit your personal and professional needs.